The theory of quantum metabolism is the idea that quantum processes, such as entanglement, influence the metabolism of cells.

This idea offers scientists a new explanation for the metabolic changes that cause healthy cells to transform into cancerous ones.

The metamorphosis gives the ability to outcompete healthy cells for space and nutrients, causing the disease to spread.

Understanding the quantum metabolic underpinnings of the transformation could potentially lead to new types of treatment to stop , researchers argue.

More information: "Implications of quantum metabolism and natural selection for the origin of cancer cells and tumor progression" is published in AIP Advances.

Provided by American Institute of Physics